Capital Projects: Building for You

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For more than a century, NYPL has made neighborhoods stronger with our 92 locations in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. Today, we're creating library spaces that meet our users ever-changing needs–from computer access to classes for kids and adults. Over the past 10 years, we have invested more than $250 million in capital improvements systemwide, with many more projects underway.

Ongoing Major Projects

NYPL is currently engaged in early program development for the renovation of NYPL’s largest circulating branch, Mid-Manhattan Library. The project will also double public space in the Library’s landmark Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, creating synergies between the two buildings and a vibrant source of opportunity, knowledge and information in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Learn more on the project website.

The Library's historic 125th Street branch is scheduled to undergo a complete renovation. Currently in the planning stages, the project is one of five Carnegie branches to be renovated as part of a major investment in FY16 by the Mayor, City Council, and the Manhattan Borough President. Plans will incorporate feedback the Library received about what community members would like to see at the new location.

The New York City Department of Housing Preservation & Development is partnering with The Robin Hood Foundation and The New York Public Library to redevelop Inwood Library and create new 100% affordable housing on the site. The new library will remain its current size and will maintain existing services while providing additional services. Community Visioning Workshops were held in 2017 and users were invited to take a brief survey to help inform design and services.

Originally a courthouse, Jefferson Market Library has served the Greenwich Village community for over 40 years. The building, a New York City landmark, was erected between 1875 and 1877. The renovation will improve ADA accessibility, rehabilitate the lobby, and improve fire safety. Currently, community meetings are being planned with construction beginning in late 2018.

The Library's smallest branch is moving to a bigger, better home. The new Macomb's Bridge Library in Harlem will be located across the street from the current 685-square-foot branch and offer nearly five times the space, giving the community more seats, programs, classes, and computers.

Port Richmond Library is scheduled to undergo a complete renovation. Thanks to a major investment by the Mayor, City Council, and the Staten Island Borough President, Port Richmond will be one of five Carnegie branches of The New York Public Library renovated across the city. Construction should begin in 2019 and is currently in the design phase.

The New York Public Library is building a new, larger building to replace this branch. The new 5,200-square-foot building, which will add much-needed public programming space, will more than double the size of the current building. Construction should begin in 2018 and is currently in the design phase.

Following a major renovation in 2007, the Schomburg Center is now undergoing a $20 million improvement project featuring an updated facade, auditorium, gift shop, a new gallery space, and several new reading rooms.

The New York Public Library is building a new Van Cortlandt Library just a few blocks from the existing branch. At more than 6,000 square feet, the location will be more than twice the size of the current one-room branch. The state-of-the-art library will feature modern technology and outdoor space, as well as meet ADA accessibility and expanded programming needs.

The Westchester Square community is getting a new and improved 12,000-square-foot branch to replace its current library. The new branch will feature spaces for adults, teens, and children; full ADA accessibility; and a beautiful, glass-front design. Construction should begin in 2018 and is currently in the design phase.